Exercise and Depression

When you have major depression, the very LAST thing you may want to do is take a jog around the block. But, NUMEROUS studies have shown that a consistent, MONITORED exercise routine can help improve your mood and TREAT major depression symptoms.  A 2011 study conducted at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center revealed that 12 weeks of daily aerobic exercise, when combined with antidepressants and psychotherapy, contributed to a REMISSION of symptoms in almost 30 PERCENT of participants. And another TWENTY percent showed obvious improvement. The participants’ exercise routine included jogging on a treadmill, cycling on an exercise bike, or speed-walking on the sidewalk. Even more dramatic results came out of a Duke University study. In it, exercise alone proved to be the most effects way to prevent relapse of depression.  The group that ONLY exercised had the LOWEST rate of symptom relapse—only EIGHT percent, compared to 38 percent in the antidepressant-only group and 31 percent of the exercise-and-drug group.  A few other studies conducted on the subject came up with the same fundamental result – exercise eases depression symptoms!  But HOW? Some researchers say that patients may feel better because they’re taking an ACTIVE part in their treatment, rather than simply taking a pill. It’s also likely that ENDORPHINS play a LARGE role in improving the MOOD of depressed people. These chemicals, released during exercise, are known to change a person’s mood for the BETTER.  It’s also possible that exercise releases norepinephrine, a neurotransmitter that affects mood. Exercise can also help you gain CONFIDENCE by meeting exercise goals, it can distract you from your worries, and HELP you interact with others. If you’d like to incorporate a fitness routine into YOUR treatment plan, speak with your mental healthcare provider right away. And to learn more about major depression, take a look at other videos in this series.